An apparatus for facilitating shoulder rotation and pectoral fly exercises

Abstract

An apparatus to facilitate effective pectoral fly and shoulder rotation exercises comprises a base platform, an adjustable seat, and a frame with a backrest. The apparatus comprises at least a pair of lever mechanisms with two or more levers connected to a first weight stack via a cable-and-pulley system. One or more rotating members are pivotally connected to the levers, to allow the user to perform shoulder rotation exercise by rotating the rotating member about its pivot ends, while enabling rotational movement of the rotating member along a rotational axis, parallel to a horizontal axis of the apparatus, to effectively activate rotator cuff muscles of the user. The rotating member includes a handle configured to allow the user to grip the handle and rotate the rotating member in up-and-down direction to perform shoulder rotation exercise and rotate the levers towards a central axis of the apparatus to perform pec fly exercise. The apparatus includes range controllers to control resistance provided by the weight stacks for performing the pec fly and shoulder rotation exercises and adjust range of motion of the pec fly and shoulder rotation exercises.

Description

AN APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING SHOULDER ROTATION AND PECTORALFLY EXERCISESTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of exercise equipment. In particular, the present invention pertains to an apparatus for facilitating shoulder rotation as well pectoral fly exercises.BACKGROUND

[0002] Pectoral fly machines, also commonly known as “Pec fly machines”, are widely used in strength training to target and develop the pectoral muscles through shoulder adduction. Conventional pec fly machines are typically designed to isolate this single motion. They enable users to perform shoulder adduction by bringing the arms together in front of the body while maintaining a fixed position. Conventional pec fly machines focus solely on shoulder adduction. Such machines, however, do not facilitate rotation of the shoulders of humerus bones, which generally accompanies real-life throwing motions.

[0003] In activities such as throwing motions, the shoulder undergoes a coordinated sequence involving both shoulder rotation and shoulder adduction. The rotation of the shoulder or humerus bone is a key component in the wind-up and delivery phases of a throwing motion, engaging the shoulder’s rotator cuff muscles as well as its stabilizers. Shoulder adduction, on the other hand, is critical for the contraction of the pectoral muscles and the subsequent force generation needed for the throwing motion. Existing machines that isolate shoulder adduction do not adequately replicate the integrated muscle actions involved in the throwing motions, potentially leading to a gap in training effectiveness and increased risk of injury.

[0004] Athletes who train using the traditional pec fly machines may develop strength in the pectoral muscles but often neglect the crucial rotator cuff and stabilizer muscle groups of the shoulder. This can result in imbalances and reduced performance in throwing-related activities. Moreover, the lack of functional movement of the shoulders may not fully prepare athletes for the dynamic demands of their sports, increasing the risk of shoulder injuries such as rotator cuff strains or shoulder impingement.SUMMARY

[0005] Known pec fly machines suffer from a major drawback, in that they lack features that enables users to perform shoulder rotation as well as shoulder adduction exercises simultaneously, targeting pectoral muscles and rotator cuff muscles to strengthen the shoulders of the users.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need to address the shortcomings and deficiencies of conventional pec fly exercise machines by developing an improved apparatus that assists users to perform pec fly and shoulder rotation exercises simultaneously while adequately toning and strengthening the shoulders of the users.

[0007] A general objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that enables users to perform both pec fly and shoulder rotation exercises that targets pectoral muscles, rotator cuff muscles, and external rotators of the shoulders to enhance overall strength and stability of the shoulders.

[0008] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus designed to safely and effectively tone and strengthen muscle groups of both the upper body as well as the shoulders of the users.

[0009] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus configured to facilitate users in performing both pec fly and shoulder rotation exercises, which helps in developing both front and back of the shoulder, thereby leading to more balanced muscular development and reducing the risk of imbalances.

[0010] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus that enables users to perform both pec fly and shoulder rotation exercises simultaneously, which helps in aligning the shoulder girdle, supporting improved posture and reducing strain on other parts of the body.

[0011] The present invention pertains to an apparatus designed to facilitate efficient performance of pec fly and shoulder rotation exercises. The apparatus features a base platform with a seat that can be adjusted both horizontally and vertically for optimal positioning. A frame at the rear of the base platform supports a backrest for user comfort during exercises. The apparatus includes at least a pair of lever mechanisms with two or more levers connected to a first weight stack via a cable-and-pulley system. One or more rotating members are pivotally connected to the levers, allowing the user to perform shoulder rotation exercises by rotating the rotating members about their pivot ends, while enabling rotational movement of the rotating members along a rotational axis, parallel to a horizontal axis of the apparatus, to effectively activate the rotator cuff muscles of the user.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present invention, each lever mechanism and rotating member may be configured to enable the user to perform both pectoral fly and shoulder rotation exercises. Each lever mechanism may include a first lever with a pivot end rotatably coupled to the frame and a second end connected to one end of the first lever and extending downward towards the base platform. The rotating members may be pivotally attached to freeends of the second lever, allowing the user to rotate the rotating members about their pivot ends to perform either exercise.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the rotating member may include a handle configured at a proximal end of the rotating member. The handle can be configured parallel to the rotational axis of the rotating member. The handle may be configured to allow the user to grip the handle and rotate the rotating member in up-and-down direction to perform the shoulder rotation exercises, and thereafter rotate the levers towards a central axis of the apparatus to perform pec fly exercises.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the rotating member may include a support pad configured at a rear end of the rotating member. The support pad may be configured to support an elbow of the user while performing exercises. The support pad may be cushioned to provide comfort, stability, and protection for the elbow joint during exercises.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the rotating member may include a stabilizer bar configured above and parallel to the handle. The stabilizer bar may be configured to directly interface with the wrist of the user. The stabilizer bar may be adjusted over the handle to keep the wrist in a controlled position. The stabilizer bar may resist or limit wrist movement, thereby ensuring the wrist may remain aligned with desired exercise path.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the apparatus can include a second weight stack connected to the rotating member via a cable-and-pulley system. The second weight stack can facilitate additional resistance for shoulder rotation movements during the shoulder rotation exercise. This resistance challenges the rotator cuff muscles involved in the shoulder rotational movements. The first and second weight stacks can be configured together in a housing.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a first range controller configured to adjust and lock the levers, allowing users to customize the range of motion for the pectoral fly exercise.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the apparatus may include a second range controller configured with the first weight stack to adjust the resistance provided by the first weight stack to adjust the resistance or load provided by the first weight stack against the movement of the levers, based on the user's preferences.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus may include a third range controller to adjust and lock the rotating member, allowing the users to customize the range of motion for the shoulder rotation exercises.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus can also include a fourth range controller configured with the second weight stack to adjust theresistance provided by the second weight stack, in response to the movement of the rotation members, according to the user’s preferences.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the levers may be designed to remain in a neutral position with the handle positioned in sides of the user while seated. To initiate the shoulder rotation exercise, the user can place the forearm on the rotating member and grip the handle and begin rotating the rotating member about its pivot ends. The rotating member may include a configuration to limit the rotation of the rotating member, preventing unhealthy arm movements. In the neutral position, the rotating member remains parallel to the floor. As the user rotates the handle from the neutral position to an extended position, where the handle is approximately parallel to the user's chest, the shoulder cuff and pectoral muscles are conditioned by the resistance provided by the selected weight from the second weight stack.

[0022] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 1 A illustrate exemplary perspective view of an apparatus for assisting a user to perform shoulder rotation and pectoral fly exercises, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. IB illustrates an exemplary side view of the apparatus of FIG. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the invention depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the invention. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0027] Various terms are used herein. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined, it should be given the broadest definition a person skilled in art has given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.

[0028] Conventional pec fly machines are designed to isolate and strengthen the pectoral muscles by focusing solely on shoulder adduction. However, they fail to address the full spectrum of shoulder dynamics involved in complex movements such as throwing. This limitation results in a training regimen that does not engage the shoulder's rotator cuffs or stabilizers, which are crucial for proper shoulder function and injury prevention. Consequently, athletes and individuals using these machines may experience imbalances, inadequate preparation for dynamic activities, and an increased risk of shoulder injuries due to the lack of integrated, functional movement training.

[0029] Embodiments described herein relate to an apparatus that facilitates performing both pectoral fly and shoulder rotation exercises while effective activation of the rotator cuff muscles of the shoulders of the users. The apparatus is also configured to facilitate both exercises, engaging the shoulders, upper back, and neck for comprehensive muscle development.

[0030] FIGs. 1A-1B illustrate exemplary perspective views of an apparatus 100 designed for facilitating shoulder rotation and pec fly exercises. The apparatus 100 allows a user to perform both pectoral fly and shoulder rotation exercises while efficiently engaging the shoulder muscles and integrating multiple muscle groups, including the shoulders, upper back, and neck. The apparatus 100 includes a base platform 102 arranged parallel to a ground surface, and a seat 104 mounted on the base platform 102 to support the user’s buttocks during seated exercises. The base platform 102 can be made from high-strength materials such as but not limited to steel or reinforced aluminum. These materials provide a stable and durable foundation capable of withstanding the forces and stresses exerted during exercise. The seat 104 can be parallel to the horizontal axis or adjusted to an incline to modify the seating position. In an exemplary embodiment, the seat 104 can be slidably adjustable in the vertical direction relative to the base platform 102, providing easy and convenient vertical adjustment. The seat 104 can be contoured to match the natural curves of the body of the user, thereby providing support and comfort during use. The ergonomically designed seat 104 can help in maintaining proper posture and alignment, which is essential for performing exercises correctly and reducing the risk of injury. In an embodiment, the seat 104 can be padded with cushioning materials to enhance comfort and reduce pressure during exercising.

[0031] The apparatus 100 also includes a frame mounted on a rear side of the base platform 102, behind the seat 104. A backrest 120 may be positioned at the rear of the seat 104 to support the users back while seated and performing either the pectoral fly or shoulder rotation exercise. The apparatus 100 includes at least one pair of lever mechanisms 106 designed to enable theuser to perform pectoral fly and shoulder rotation exercises. The lever mechanisms with two or more levers can be connected to a first weight stack 118 via a cable-and-pulley system. Each lever mechanism 106 includes a first lever 106-1 with a pivot end 106- la rotatably coupled to the frame and a second lever 106-2 connected near one end 106- lb of the first lever 106-1 and extending downward towards the base platform 102. In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes one or more rotating members 108 (individually referred as “rotating member 108” hereinafter) pivotally connected to the second lever 106-2, allowing the user to perform the shoulder rotation exercise by rotating the rotating member 108 about its pivot ends, while enabling rotational movement of the rotating member 108 along a rotational axis, parallel to a horizontal axis of the apparatus 100, to effectively activate the rotator cuff muscles of the user.

[0032] In an embodiment, the rotating member 108 can include a handle 110 configured at a proximal end of the rotating member 108. The handle 110 can be configured parallel to the rotational axis of the rotating member 108. The handle 110 can be configured to allow the user to grip the handle 110, and rotate the rotating member 108 in an up-and down-direction to perform the shoulder rotation exercise, and thereafter rotate the levers 106 towards a central axis of the apparatus 100 to perform pec fly exercise.

[0033] In an embodiment, the rotating member 108 can include a support pad 112 configured at a rear end of the rotating member 108. The support pad 112 can be configured to support an elbow of the user while performing exercises. The support pad 112 can be cushioned to provide comfort, stability, and protection for the elbow joint during exercises. The support pad 112 can stabilize the elbow by providing a secure and consistent surface for it to rest against. This support pad 112 can help to prevent the elbow from shifting or moving excessively during exercises, which can improve effectiveness of the exercises.

[0034] In an embodiment, the rotating member 108 can include a stabilizer bar 114 configured above and parallel to the handle. The stabilizer bar 114 can be configured to directly interface with the wrist of the user. The stabilizer bar 114 can be adjusted over the handle to keep the wrist in a controlled position. The stabilizer bar 114 can resist or limit wrist movement, thereby ensuring the wrist may remain aligned with desired exercise path.

[0035] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 can include a second weight stack (not shown) connected to the rotating member 108 via a cable-and-pulley system. The second weight stack (not shown) can facilitate an additional resistance for shoulder rotation movements during shoulder rotation exercise. This resistance targets rotator cuff muscles involved in the shoulder rotational movements, thereby enhancing strength of muscles associated with the shoulders.The first and second weight stacks (collectively referred as “weight stack 118” hereinafter) can be configured together in a housing 116.

[0036] In an exemplary embodiment, the user can select a specific weight from the first weight stack 118, then sit on the seat 104 with their back supported by the backrest 120. To begin the shoulder rotation exercise, the user can grip the handle 110, and start rotating the levers 106 about their pivot ends. The lever mechanism 106 may include a configuration to limit the rotation of the levers 106 to prevent unhealthy arm movements. As the user moves the handlei 10 from the neutral position to an extended position, where the handle 110 is substantially parallel to the user's chest, the muscle groups in the upper body are conditioned by the resistance provided by the selected weight from the second weight stack.

[0037] The apparatus 100 can include a first range controller 122 to adjust and lock the levers 106, allowing users to customize the range of motion for the pectoral fly exercise. The first range controller 122 may be configured with the lever 106 to adjust or restrict the range of motion of the pec fly exercise. The range controller is adapted to prevent excessive movement of the joints of the user, which could potentially cause discomfort or injury to the user. In addition, the range controller allows the users to customize their exercise intensity by adjusting the range of motion of the pec fly exercise.

[0038] The first range controller 122 may be operatively connected to the first weight stack 118, or one or more adjust points of where each motion among the shoulder rotation, and the pec fly motion can be oriented from, to enable effective adjustment and locking of the range of motion for the exercise. The first range controller 122 is designed so that the levers 106 are allowed to rotate about the corresponding pivot ends only up to pre-defined range of motion, and when the user applies a pushing force on the handle 110 that exceeds the resistance of the selected weight from first the weight stack 118.

[0039] In an embodiment, the apparatus can include a second range controller (not shown) configured with the first weight stack 118 can adjust the resistance provided by the first weight stack 118 to adjust the resistance or load provided by the first weight stack 118 against the movement of the levers 106, based on the user's preferences. Further, the apparatus 100 can include a third range controller 124 configured to adjust and lock the rotating member 108, allowing the users to customize the range of motion for the shoulder rotation exercise.

[0040] In an embodiment, the apparatus can also include a fourth range controller (not shown) configured with the second weight stack to adjust the resistance provided by the second weight stack in response to the movement of the rotation members 108, according to the user’spreferences. Each of the second and fourth range controllers can include a blocking member configured above a weight selector of the weight stack 118 for sliding movement in a blocking member track. The blocking member track can be located parallel to a weight stack track. The blocking member can include a lock to lock the blocking member in a selected position above the weight stack 118 such that when the weight stack 118 is lifted up, an amount of its upward movement of the weight stack 118 is restricted by the blocking member.

[0041] In an embodiment, the first range controller 122 can include a pivotally moving member configured for pivotal movement along an axis that is coaxial to the axis of rotation of the levers, and a selector plate having a plurality of holes. The pivotally moving member can include a lock having a retractable pin configured to lock the pivotally moving member in different angular positions by engaging with a selected hole among the plurality holes of the selector plate. The levers can include a stopper, which is located in the same plane as the pivotally moving member such that, during the rotation of the levers, the stopper engages with the pivotally moving member to block further rotation of the levers beyond the selected position.

[0042] In an embodiment, the third range controller 124 can be configured similar to the first range controller 122 to control the rotational motion of the rotating member 108.

[0043] Thus, this setup effectively engages the muscle groups of the shoulders, upper back, and neck, providing improved and more effective strengthening of these muscle groups.

[0044] To perform the shoulder rotation exercise, the user first sits on the seat 104 with his back supported at the backrest 120. The user can adjust height and position of the seat 104 to ensure that his elbows are aligned with the rotating member 108, and the support pad 112 is properly positioned under the user’s elbows. Thereafter, the user holds the handle 110 of the rotating member 108 firmly with his hands. The user can ensure that palms face down or slightly forward, depending on the handle 110 design. The elbows may be bent at a 90-degree angle with the forearms and parallel to the floor. After taking said position, the user can rotate the handle 110 outward, away from his body. This motion involves external rotation of the shoulders, during which the forearms and the upper arms move outward while keeping the elbows bent and fixed. While the handle 110 is rotated outwards, the rotator cuffs of the shoulders and the deltoid muscles are engaged. Subsequently, the user can rotate the handle 110 through a full range of motion, focusing on smooth and controlled movements. After completing the desired number of repetitions, the user can return the handle 110 to the starting / neutral position.

[0045] To perform the pec fly exercise, the rotating member 108 may be positioned substantially perpendicular to the floor. This position typically means that the arms are oriented vertically, i.e., in an up-and-down direction when the user is seated. The user can then maintain a slight bend in their elbows. Thereafter, the user can move the rotating member 108 closer to a centerline of their body, i.e., towards the front of the chest by applying a pulling force on the handlei 10. Consequently, this configuration effectively engages the pectoral muscles of the body.

[0046] Thus, the apparatus 100 enables users to perform both pectoral fly and shoulder rotation exercises with enhanced effectiveness. The apparatus 100 is designed to safely and effectively tone and strengthen multiple muscle groups in the upper body, including the shoulders and neck.

[0047] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and / or patentability.

[0048] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An apparatus (100) for facilitating shoulder rotation and pectoral fly exercises, comprising: a. a base platform (102); b. a seat (104) mounted on the base platform (102); c. a frame supporting a backrest (120); d. at least a pair of lever mechanisms (106) connected to a first weight stack (118); and e. one or more rotating members (108) pivotally connected to the lever mechanisms (106), allowing a user to perform shoulder rotation exercises, wherein each lever mechanism (106) includes a first lever (106-1) rotatably coupled to the frame and a second lever (106-2) connected to the first lever (106-1), and wherein the rotating member (108) includes a handle (110), the handle (110) configured to allow the user to grip the handle (110) and perform the shoulder rotation exercise and thereafter rotate the levers (106) to perform pec fly exercise.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a second weight stack connected to the rotating member (108) via a cable-and-pulley system (116), the second weight stack configured to facilitate additional resistance for shoulder rotation movements during the shoulder rotation exercise.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first and second weight stacks (118) are configured together in a housing (116).

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the rotating member (108) further comprises a support pad (112) configured at a rear end of the rotating member (108), the support pad (112) configured to support an elbow of the user while performing exercises, wherein the support pad (112) is cushioned.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the rotating member (108) further comprises a stabilizer bar (114) configured above and parallel to the handle (110), the stabilizer bar (114) configured to directly interface with the wrist of the user and be adjusted over the handle (110) to keep the wrist in a controlled position.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the seat (104) is slidably adjustable in the vertical direction relative to the base platform (102).

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the frame is mounted on a rear side of the base platform (102).

8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising at least one range controller selected from the group consisting of: (a) a first range controller (122) configured to adjust and lock the levers (106); (b) a second range controller configured with the first weight stack (118) to adjust the resistance or load provided by the first weight stack (118); (c) a third range controller (124) configured to adjust and lock the rotating member (108); and (d) a fourth range controller configured with the second weight stack (118) to adjust the resistance provided by the second weight stack.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lever mechanisms (106) are connected to the first weight stack (118) via a cable-and-pulley system (116).

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the rotating member (108) is pivotally connected to the second lever (106-2) of the lever mechanisms (106).

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the second lever (106-2) extends downward towards the base platform (102), and the handle (110) is configured to rotate the rotating member (108) in an up-and-down direction to perform the shoulder rotation exercise.

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